Page 14 - Superintendent Annual Report 24-25

CULTURAL INFUSION INITIATIVES

Culturally Sustaining Education: Celebrating Diversity Through Learning
The District is committed to providing educational experiences that reflect and affirm the diverse cultural
identities of all students. As part of this initiative, the study of African, African American, Latino, Holocaust,
and Jewish history plays a vital role in fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. When students see their
cultures, perspectives, and unique experiences represented in the curriculum, their academic engagement and
sense of belonging are strengthened. The Department of Secondary Education supports schools in creating an
enriching environment by developing curriculum and instructional materials, offering job-embedded profes-
sional learning, and designing programs that highlight the historical and societal contributions of diverse racial
and ethnic groups in all grades.

E.L.I.T.E. Summer Institutes
FY25 concluded with the E.L.I.T.E. (Elevating Learners by Innovating Teaching and Education) Summit, a
two-day workshop dedicated to enhancing educators’ instructional practices. This summit was led by curriculum
and instructional design experts and focused on teaching content literacy through the arts and Project-Based
Learning. Workshops explored ways to integrate Hispanic and African American history into social studies and
English Language Arts, equipping teachers with strategies to boost literacy among underperforming student
groups. The second day featured travel presentations and a bus tour, during which participants experienced the
rich cultural heritage and history of our local community. The overarching goal was to empower educators to
embed culturally relevant content across multiple disciplines, enriching the learning experience for all students.
Holocaust and Jewish History Studies

The District offers a wide array of impactful, live programming designed to educate and engage students of all
ages in the study of Holocaust and Jewish History. Holocaust survivors share their powerful and moving testimo-
nies with elementary, middle, and high school students, helping to deepen their understanding of the Holocaust
and its lasting relevance. In addition to survivor presentations, students participate in dynamic experiences
such as live theatrical productions and ballets based on Holocaust history, followed by panel discussions with
historians, survivors, and subject matter experts. Examples included:
• “Living Voices” performances combined live acting with multimedia storytelling to connect historical
events to real-life personal narratives.
• The “Hate Ends Now: Cattle Car” exhibit visited 18 high schools and two middle schools, allowing students
to step inside a replica of a WWII-era cattle car while viewing a 360-degree film and exploring authentic
artifacts.
• Elementary programming, including age-appro-
priate puppet shows and interactive lessons for
grades K-5, taught students empathy, courage,
and the importance of standing up to hate.
• Student Awareness Days involved middle and
high school students participating in discussions,
workshops, and reflective activities focused on
Holocaust education and combating antisemitism.

Teachers participate in professional learning for Holocaust and
Jewish history with nationally recognized Holocaust historians.
Teachers participated in professional learning for Holocaust and Jewish History Studies with nationally
14 SUPERINTENDENT ANNUAL REPORT
recognized Holocaust historians.

"See What I Can Be" Book Series

Designed for students in grades K-5, the "See What I Can Be" book series highlights the achievements and
life stories of individuals who have been historically underrepresented. Written by African American

authors, these books feature characters from the African Diaspora, allowing young readers to see
themselves reflected in the stories they explore. Interactive read-aloud sessions with the authors fostered

meaningful connections between students and literature. Participating schools received a collection of
books to enrich their classroom libraries and encourage ongoing learning.

JPG versions for images 1-5 are in content submission folders

Images 1 and 2

Students participated in the “See What I Can Be” book series.